Alaska Startups Code

Alaskans have always been risk takers with an entrepreneurial flare. That’s why we have one of the highest rates of new business launches in the US. Our startup ecosystem has grown and matured significantly in recent years, but we have a long way to go. The Alaska Startups Code is what we believe and how we act as we build our ecosystem. It guides our interactions on Ideator and in all social media, forums, events, and communications within our community.

1. #GiveFirst

Every community lives and dies by the contributions of the people in it. The entrepreneurship and innovator community is no different. #GiveFirst means give before you receive - support other startups, make yourself available to aspiring entrepreneurs, show up to events, and volunteer time, money, and/or resources to help initiatives that build the community. In return, appreciate the help others give you.

2. Honesty & Integrity

Be direct, honest, and transparent.

Protect sensitive information. Any information that is not publicly available is sensitive and should be treated as such.

Disclose conflicts of interest.

Do not steal assets or content.

3. Respect

Our community is non-hostile, open, and welcoming.

Diversity drives innovation. Encourage participation and feedback from people with diverse backgrounds, opinions, and expertise.

"Don't assume malice when ignorance will suffice." Do not assume someone's intention is harm. Give them the benefit of a bad day, not knowing the full story, or misinterpretation.

4. Feedback is Essential

Encourage a culture of candid, respectful feedback.

Direct but polite feedback is critical to success. Avoid giving false praise if you see flaws in someone's reasoning and approach.

Thank others for their honest feedback and do not take criticisms personally.

5. Celebrate Failing Smart

Recognize that entrepreneurship is about testing ideas. Most of these ideas are not successful, and failures yield valuable lessons. Embrace and celebrate failure as an opportunity to learn.

Be keen to share lessons from unsuccessful ventures with others.

Learn from others failures, and appreciate the people that are helping you fail smarter.

6. Action Counts

Ideas are only worth as much as the actions you take to make them a reality.

The University of Alaska Center for Economic Development (CED) a program of the University of Alaska Anchorage Business Enterprise Institute manages Alaska Startups as a community initiative. If you are interested in contributing, contact us.